The North American Rescue SPEAR (Simplified Pneumothorax Emergency Air Release) Device allows either lateral decompression or traditional anterior needle thoracostomy.

The SPEAR device features a sharp needle point, reducing the amount of force required to insert the needle, as well as a spin-lock feature that helps prevent premature separation between the needle and catheter. To help with confirmation of depth and success, the device has centimeter depth markings and a detachable, low pressure one-way check valve that creates an audible whistle as air rushes through. The one-way valve can be removed from the needle and either reapplied to the catheter or left off entirely, according to local protocols. Upon removal of the needle, the remaining catheter is a flexible, kink-resistant material with a soft tip to lessen the impact on possible tissue contact. Also, the catheter features 3 fenestrations (holes) along the length to aid in air flow.

The latest TCCC Guidelines have allowed for a 10ga Needle in addition to the traditional 14ga product. The larger lumen increases the area of flow. The additional length of the SPEAR device (total catheter length: 3.75 in.) should allow the user to reach and maintain access to the pleural space in a vast majority of the population.

Features:

• Sharp needle point for easy insertion
• Spin-lock connection to prevent premature separation between the needle and catheter
• Depth markings for confirmation of depth
• Detachable low-pressure one-way valve that creates an audible whistle as air rushes through
• Fenestrations along catheter for air flow
• Pen-style case for easy storage and deployment
• Allows either lateral decompression or traditional anterior needle thoracostomy
• Catheter made of flexible kink-resistant material with a soft tip
• Single-use
• Sterile